In the contemporary societies citizen insecurity forms more and more of people's daily experience. In Europe population between 15% and 26% are victims. This thesis analyzes the problems of security in seven European countries, Portugal, Catalonia (Spain), France, England (and Wales), Sweden, Switzerland and Poland. It aims to explain variation in the security culture in European countries from structural and sociological differences. It studies objective victimization, subjective insecurity, attitudes in relation with the institutions and the demands of security. The level of citizen worry for insecurity is examined. The social profiles of risk are investigated. The most vulnerable social groups and the factors that intervene are identified. The way that population perceives (in) security is characterized. Perceptions, attitudes and demands are related social, cultural and demographic factors. The opinion poll International Crime and Victimization Survey (ICVS) is the principal source of data. The cross-national comparison is used to understand the different social realities.

The results suggest that different features of delinquency associated with attitudes and conduct that create in Europe security cultures. Similarities and differences between countries allows us to identify four models of security culture: the Mediterranean, the Eastern, the Anglo-Saxon and the Scandinavian. These are distinguished by different socioeconomic structures and individual and cultural characteristics. Also this explains, in part, the different levels of confidence, attitudes and demands in the institutions linked with security.

European population demands more quality of life and it regards security as part of this. The sensation of security is a great problem on the continent. This uncertainly grows with modern life, implies intolerance and reinforces those who ask for more repression. Delinquency, insecurity, unemployment, immigration, the lack of social protection or the inequality among other issues, they must not be understood as socially isolated problems, but as pieces of the same puzzle that the complex present-day society is. It is necessary to include ample of social policies within a frame which promote social cohesion and solidarity, and that consequently, bring greater security.